JP2024515237A - Device for stimulating vitamin D3 biosynthesis - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device (1) for stimulating the biosynthesis of vitamin D3. The device comprises at least one first light source for emitting optical radiation comprising wavelengths in the range of 280 nm to 315 nm. The apparatus further comprises a sensor unit for detecting the illuminated area and a directing unit for aligning the at least one light source with the illuminated area. The device also comprises a control unit designed to identify the illuminated area and to trigger the emission of optical radiation comprising wavelengths in the range of 280 nm to 315 nm by the at least one light source. The present invention further comprises a computer program product for controlling such a device.

Description

The present invention relates to a device for stimulating the biosynthesis of vitamin D3 and a computer program product for controlling the device, all according to the preambles of the independent claims.

Technical background

Vitamins are essential substances for living organisms, involved in many metabolic reactions and affecting the immune system. Among vitamins, vitamin D plays a special role. It is a lipophilic compound that most vertebrates can synthesize by exposing the skin to ultraviolet radiation. The main reason for this is the UV-B component in sunlight, i.e. light radiation with wavelengths between 280 nm and 315 nm.

Vitamin D3 supplementation may be necessary in various regions or when engaging in activities that are primarily indoors or at night. In addition to foods containing vitamin D, vitamin D can also be taken as a dietary supplement. When taking vitamin D tablets, it is important to also consume the corresponding fat or oil to facilitate absorption. Essentially, in circumstances where vitamin D concentrations cannot be kept at a sufficient level by daily exposure to a certain amount of sunlight or by appropriate nutritional supplements, it is possible to take advantage of biosynthesis through the skin by photoirradiation, as occurs with exposure to sunlight. For example, a visit to a solarium with a short exposure time may be sufficient to keep the biosynthesis of vitamin D3 by the body itself at a sufficient level. Increasingly, products are appearing on the market that advertise themselves as light sources for daily use that are supposed to further support the biosynthesis of vitamin D3. However, it is important to note that the relevant UV radiation in the wavelength range of 280 nm to 315 nm can damage the eye. UV radiation of types A and B is usually absorbed by the lens of the eye, which can cause a clouding effect over time and lead to cataracts that require surgical treatment. Furthermore, due to certain risks of cancer from said UV radiation, it is preferable to control exposure and not expose for long periods of time.

In particular, professional groups who have to work regularly at night, or people who live in places where daily solar radiation is very low or non-existent, especially in winter, would benefit greatly from a light source that allows the body to naturally synthesize vitamin D3. During the 2020 pandemic, scientific studies have also found strong evidence that UV-B radiation may have a protective effect against severe COVID-19, supported by vitamin D3 synthesis (Evidence of protective role of Ultraviolet-B (UVB) radiation in reducing COVID-19 deaths [Moozhipurath, R.K., Kraft, L. and Skiera, B., Sci Rep 10, 17705 [2020]).

For the purposes of the present invention, without wishing to be bound by this theory, the biosynthesis of vitamin D3 and its corresponding derivatives is assumed for irradiation carried out with ultraviolet light of wavelengths between 290 and 315 nm, i.e. in the UV B range with an energy of at least half the minimum erythema dose (MED). For this purpose, 7-dehydrocholesterol is decomposed by a photochemically induced reaction of the B ring to form previtamin D3. This previtamin D3 is unstable and reacts to form vitamin D3. In the blood, it binds to vitamin D binding protein and is transported to the liver, where it is hydroxylated to form calcitriol. The necessary precursor, i.e. 7-dehydrocholesterol, is produced by the body itself.

In summary, there is a need for devices that can stimulate or at least assist the body's own biosynthesis of vitamin D3. These devices should have as few harmful side effects as possible when used.

Presentation of the invention

The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a device of the initially mentioned type, which overcomes at least one of the drawbacks of the known art.

In particular, such a device should be provided that is safe to use and capable of having a measurable effect on vitamin D3 levels in the blood. A further object of the present invention is to provide a computer program product suitable for controlling such a device and enabling the safe operation of such a device.

A further specific object of the present invention is to provide such a device and corresponding computer program product that reduces or substantially prevents damage to the lens of the eye as a result of its use.

At least one of these objects is solved by a device and a computer program product according to the characterizing parts of the independent claims.

One aspect of the invention relates to a device for stimulating the biosynthesis of vitamin D3. The device comprises at least one first light source for emitting optical radiation comprising wavelengths in the range of 280 nm to 315 nm. The device further comprises a sensor unit for detecting the irradiated area. The apparatus further comprises a directing unit for aligning the at least one light source with the irradiated area. Furthermore, the device according to the invention comprises a control unit designed to identify the irradiated area and to trigger the emission of optical radiation comprising wavelengths in the range of 280 to 315 nm by the at least one light source.

An advantage of the device according to the invention may be that the sensor unit can be used to ensure that the emission of light radiation is only utilized if a safe irradiation area is detected. This irradiation area can be determined, for example, using predefined criteria.

Surprisingly, it has been found that using the device according to the invention, an area to be irradiated, for example an area of human skin, can be irradiated with sufficient light radiation, particularly including wavelengths in the UV-B range, to stimulate or at least support the body's own formation of vitamin D, thereby keeping it below the minimum erythema dose for fair-skinned individuals.

For the purposes of the present invention, the minimum erythema dose is to be understood as the threshold above which erythema, i.e. sunburn effect, can be observed on the skin. The minimum erythema dose varies depending on the skin type and is subject to individual variability. In the present invention, it can be assumed that for example an irradiation dose of about 12.5 mJ/ ^cm2 and a duration of 10-15 minutes is sufficient to stimulate the biosynthesis of vitamin _D3 for a person with skin type 2. For the purposes of the present invention, skin types can be understood as divided according to Fitzpatrick into the following types: I (very light), II (light), III (medium light), IV (brownish, olive), V (light brown, dark) and VI (dark brown to black) [T. B. Fitzpatrick: Ultraviolet-induced pigmentary changes: Benefits and hazards. In: Therapeutic Photomedicine. (=Current Problems in Dermatology. Volume 15). Karger, 1986, pp. 25-38].

In a particular embodiment, the light source comprises at least one LED. For the purposes of the present invention, a light source for emitting light radiation comprising wavelengths in the range of 280 nm to 315 nm should be understood as a light source covering at least a part of this spectrum. Also suitable are, for example, UV-LEDs with a spectrum of 280 to 315 nm, and LEDs with peaks in said spectral range. Suitable light sources can be determined by the skilled person.

LEDs offer another advantage: it has been surprisingly found that LEDs, in particular, can be used to stimulate the biosynthesis of vitamin D3 more efficiently than natural sunlight. (Kalajian, T.A., Aldoukhi, A., Veronikis, A.J. et al. Ultraviolet B Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) Are More Efficient and Effective in Producing Vitamin D3 in Human Skin Compared to Natural Sunlight. Sci Rep 7, 11489 (2017)).

It is particularly preferred that the light source is designed to emit optical radiation having wavelengths in the range of 290 nm to 300 nm.

For the purposes of the present invention, a directing unit can be understood to mean, for example, at least one first light source and/or a mechanical arrangement suitable for directing at least the light radiation of the at least one first light source onto an illuminated area. This can be achieved, for example, in that the directing unit can be moved and/or swiveled on at least one axis. The directing unit is preferably movable and/or swiveled on at least two axes, whereby the directing unit can preferably traverse a conical area starting from the at least one first light source and thereby detect multiple illuminated areas within this conical area.

In certain embodiments, the directing unit is designed to align at least one light source over an angular range of 180°.

In a particular embodiment, the control unit comprises at least one processor designed to execute a computer program suitable for evaluating the data received from the sensor unit. This evaluation is designed, for example, to identify a particular illuminated area. The control unit can be designed to perform corresponding processes once an illuminated area has been identified. These processes can, for example, include the emission of optical radiation of said wavelength or the switching off of the emission of optical radiation of said wavelength. Furthermore, these processes can be designed to trigger an alignment by the pointing unit. If illuminated areas are detected continuously, the control unit can, for example, be designed to instruct the pointing unit to follow a particular course, for example to find a suitable illuminated area within a cone that the pointing unit can detect. Once such an area is identified, the control unit can trigger the emission of optical radiation of said wavelength.

In a particular embodiment, the sensor unit comprises an optical sensor. In particular, the optical sensor is a camera. In principle, all sensor elements capable of detecting the illuminated area over a certain distance are suitable for the sensor unit according to the invention. It has been shown that optical sensors are particularly suitable. The sensor unit can in particular comprise a sensor, for example a camera. It can also comprise other sensors, such as a range finder. For example, a suitable range finder can be provided, based on a laser range finder, which can precisely measure the distance to an object by emitting a laser beam. This has the advantage, in particular, that the device can use a controller to precisely determine the intensity of the light source, taking into account the distance of the illuminated area from the light source. In this way, it is possible to ensure that an optimal stimulation of the biosynthesis of vitamin D3 is possible and that the light radiation is applied in such a way as to remain below the critical erythema dose.

The optical sensor can also be designed to detect infrared images. A sensor thus equipped can, for example, track the effect of the optical radiation on the irradiated area. This can further aid compliance with the minimum erythema dose. Furthermore, the thermal gradient can be used to determine the specific energy value applied to the irradiated area. From this value, for example, the administration of a sufficient dose of the mentioned optical radiation can be calculated.

In a particular embodiment, the device comprises multiple sensor units, each having one or more sensors, in particular optical sensors.

In a particular embodiment, the control unit is designed to control the alignment of the first light source by the directing unit based on the identified illumination area. In this embodiment, for example, the sensor unit can be equipped with an optical sensor covering a certain area. A wide-angle lens can be used to increase the range. If a suitable illumination area is recognized by the sensor unit as being within this area and identified by the control unit, the control unit can, for example, cause the directing unit to align the light source to this area. For this purpose, the control unit can be designed to define an illumination area within the image area of the optical sensor based on a vector and to cause the directing unit to align the light source based on this vector.

In a particular embodiment, the device according to the invention comprises a focusing unit for generating a directed bundle of light rays from the emission of the light radiation by the first light source. The focusing unit is preferably designed to apply the light radiation to a limited illumination area. For this purpose, the focusing unit has, for example, elements that make it possible to keep the light radiation in a constant space over a distance from the illumination area, whereby the illumination area is defined as precisely as possible.

In a particular embodiment, the focusing unit comprises at least one reflector. For example, an LED can be used as the light source and a corresponding reflector arranged around the LED can be provided, which directs the light radiation emitted by the LED to a particular illumination area. It is particularly preferred to provide an adjustable reflector unit. An adjustable reflector unit can be made possible by means of multiple actuable reflector planes, which can take into account, for example, a particular distance or a particular angle of the illumination area relative to the light source.

In certain embodiments, the focusing unit comprises a lens and/or a collimator. It is particularly preferred that the focusing unit comprises a collimator with a converging lens for generating a directed bundle of light rays from the emission of the light radiation by the first light source. Depending on the configuration of the device, its final size and its positioning relative to the irradiation area, the focusing unit can be designed differently by a person skilled in the art as required.

In a particular embodiment, the device according to the invention comprises a second light source for emitting light radiation comprising wavelengths in the visible range. It is particularly preferred that the second light source is designed to emit light radiation comprising wavelengths in the range of 380 nm to 780 nm. By emitting visible light, the operation of the device according to the invention can ideally be followed by a human being. This second light source can therefore preferably be designed to illuminate the same illuminated area as the first light source. The generated "light cone" indicates to the user that a particular illuminated area is currently being exposed to the corresponding light radiation. For example, the user can be prompted to keep the area motionless during the period of illumination, thus ensuring that the device can emit a defined optimal amount of radiation to optimally perform the intended stimulation of vitamin D3 biosynthesis.

In a particular embodiment, the device according to the invention comprises a third light source for emitting optical radiation comprising wavelengths in the near infrared range. These wavelengths are particularly preferred to be in the range of 640 nm to 1,800 nm. Without wishing to be bound by this theory, exposure of the irradiated area to radiation in the near infrared range can improve blood flow in this area. Near infrared radiation is employed to increase blood flow to deeper layers of the tissue. As a result, the biosynthesis of vitamin D3 can be further stimulated, which allows the dose of UV-B radiation to be further reduced.

In a particular embodiment, the control unit is designed to identify a human face in the illuminated area. This can be done, for example, by comparing the illuminated area recognized by the sensor unit with a database. Methods for face recognition are currently known and widely used. Modern cameras, such as those built into current mobile phones, have face recognition to support the corresponding sharpness of the image. Face recognition that recognizes the presence of a face but does not necessarily assign it to a specific person is sufficient for the purposes of the present invention. It is nevertheless conceivable to use face recognition to identify a specific person. This makes it possible, for example, to deliver a specific dose to a person using a device according to the invention for a specific period of time. The device can thus determine that the person under discussion has been sufficiently exposed to light radiation within a certain period of time to stimulate the corresponding biosynthesis of vitamin D3. Two-dimensional and three-dimensional face recognition methods suitable for use in the present invention are known to the skilled person and can be adapted as necessary to the requirements, for example depending on whether mere recognition, whether a face is there or not, or whether an assignment of the face to a specific person is desired.

In a particular embodiment, the control unit is designed to recognize the face of a minor and exclude this person from radiation. In a particular embodiment, the control unit is designed to match the recognized face with a register approved for radiation. It can thus be ensured that only approved and/or authorized users use the device according to the invention.

In a particular embodiment, the control unit is designed to identify a predetermined irradiation area. For example, an already irradiated irradiation area can be considered as a predetermined irradiation area, so that the control unit can identify the already irradiated irradiation area and decide to use a different irradiation area for the second irradiation within a certain time interval. It can thus be ensured that the daily dose of UV-B radiation is not exceeded in a particular irradiation area. It is also conceivable that the control unit is designed to recognize a predetermined irradiation area that is to be excluded from irradiation. For example, irradiation areas of the skin that contain skin changes such as scar tissue, wound tissue, scabs, tattoos, birthmarks, etc. may be excluded from irradiation. Such a predetermined irradiation area can be stored in a memory or can be calculated from the identified irradiation area by detecting individual objects in two or three dimensions and then identifying them using algorithmic methods, similar to what happens in face recognition.

In a particular embodiment, the device according to the invention comprises a communication unit for exchanging data. The communication unit comprises at least one interface for data transmission with a computing device, which may particularly preferably also include a modern mobile phone. This interface may be suitable for enabling wireless data transmission, for example using the Wi-Fi protocol or the Bluetooth protocol. However, the interface may also be suitable for ensuring data transmission by plug-and-cable connection based on the USB protocol. The communication unit may, for example, allow for monitoring or configuring the evaluation of the operation of the device according to the invention with respect to a third-party device. For example, the use may provide for storing specific user data, such as, for example, skin type, age, occupation and lifestyle habits, together with the profile. The device may be designed to ensure optimal support for the biosynthesis of vitamin D3 based on this data. The communication unit may also be designed to keep the programming, for example in the form of the firmware of the device, up to date. It is also conceivable that the communication unit allows a connection with a machine learning supported program, so as to continuously improve, for example, face recognition. A further function is then to recognize other user areas that are excluded from radiation, such as, for example, birthmarks or wounds, as already mentioned above.

In a particular embodiment, the first light source and/or the second light source and/or the third light source are physically coupled around the sensor unit. These light sources can thus jointly be directed to the illumination area by the pointing unit. This arrangement is particularly advantageous when the device according to the invention has a "search and find" function that actively identifies a suitable illumination area. For example, the sensor unit can be provided with a motion sensor that recognizes that a person is within the effective range of the device according to the invention. The sensor unit can then start detecting and identifying a particular illumination area using the control unit. The control unit can cause the pointing unit to search for a suitable illumination area within the effective area of the device until such an area is found.

In a particular embodiment, the pointing unit is designed to be pivotable about at least two axes. The pointing unit particularly preferably has at least one rotatably mounted stand base and a rotatably mounted tool arm for pivoting the light source on at least two axes. Such an arrangement makes it possible to extend the effective range of the device according to the invention to a hemisphere on the plane on which the device is positioned. By movement on two axes, the entire space inside this hemisphere can be detected by the sensor unit.

In a particular embodiment, the irradiated area is a skin area having an area of 40 cm ² to 900 cm ² , in particular 50 cm ² to 600 cm ² , particularly preferably about 400 cm ^2. The skilled person can find further suitable irradiation protocols in the works by Kalajian, T. A., Aldoukhi, A., Veronikis, A. J. et al. and Moozhipurath et al. mentioned above.

In certain embodiments, the skin area of this irradiated area can be defined by an adjusted focusing unit. For this purpose, the focusing unit can, for example, have an adjustable opening, which can widen or narrow the cone of the light beam accordingly, so that the irradiated area can be defined within certain parameters.

With the device according to the invention, a device is provided that makes it possible to stimulate the biosynthesis of vitamin D3 in a targeted manner and with good control of possible side effects. The skilled person will understand that in one embodiment of such a device according to the invention, any combination of the mentioned features may be implemented, as long as they are not mutually exclusive.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a computer program product for controlling a device for stimulating biosynthesis of vitamin D3. It is particularly preferred that the computer program product is executed by a control unit of the above-mentioned device. The computer program is designed to compare the irradiated area recognized by the sensor unit with a predetermined irradiated area. The computer program is further designed to trigger the emission of light radiation comprising a wavelength in the range of 280 nm to 315 nm by at least one first light source. This occurs when the recognized irradiated area does not fall into the irradiated area excluded from exposure.

The computer program product according to the invention can therefore ensure that the irradiation can always meet health requirements. The appropriate irradiation area can particularly preferably be predefined.

In certain embodiments, the irradiation areas excluded from irradiation are irradiation areas selected from the group consisting of a human face, skin areas with one or more pigmented nevi, skin areas with scabs, wounds and/or scar tissue, and skin areas that have already been irradiated with optical radiation comprising wavelengths in the range of 280 nm to 315 nm within a predetermined time interval.

In a particular embodiment, the illumination areas that are excluded from illumination are illumination areas that are part of a person who is not authorized to use the device. This can be ensured, for example, by enrolling and storing a facial image as a biometric identification means. Furthermore, minors can be excluded from using the device in this way.

In a particular embodiment, the computer program product is designed to assign a time interval to a particular illumination area. Within this time interval, the illumination area is illuminated with light radiation comprising wavelengths in the range of 280-315 nm. This can be done, for example, in that the control unit, in cooperation with the mentioned device, identifies a particular illumination area and recognizes it as suitable. Irradiation is started and a certain time interval is established during which irradiation is performed. This time interval can be designed to be fixed, for example, at a time interval of 30 seconds to 10 minutes, in particular 1 to 8 minutes, more particularly 3 to 5 minutes, or it can be variable and defined using parameters previously stored in the user profile, including, for example, skin type, vitamin D requirement, lifestyle habits, etc. It is known, for example, that the darker the skin type, the longer the person must be exposed to sunlight before he or she can synthesize sufficient amounts of vitamin D3. Furthermore, lifestyle habits, for example, active mainly at night or beyond latitudes where daily solar radiation falls below a certain level, can also be a reason to adjust the corresponding time interval. Medical history may also be a reason to make appropriate adjustments, e.g., disorders of vitamin D metabolism or special needs for vitamin D due to age and/or medical conditions.

In a particular embodiment, the computer program product is designed to control a search for a predetermined illumination area by the computer program product controlling the sensor unit. If a suitable illumination area is not found, the sensor unit can be designed to perform a search by scanning the entire active area and identifying possible illumination areas.

In certain embodiments, the computer program product is designed to compare each image recorded by the optical sensor with an illuminated area that is excluded from illumination.

This ensures that unintended areas are not accidentally illuminated.

In a particular embodiment, the computer program product is designed to enter an operational mode upon a signal from the sensor unit, in order to search for suitable illumination areas that are not specifically excluded from illumination. This signal can be, for example, a motion detection.

In a further particular embodiment, the computer program product is designed to stop irradiating the irradiated area with light radiation comprising wavelengths in the range of 280-315 nm as soon as the sensor unit detects an irradiated area within the effective range of the light source that is to be excluded from irradiation. This can happen, for example, if the irradiated person moves or another person enters the irradiation room, making it impossible to ensure that the area to be excluded from irradiation, such as the face, is not affected by the radiation.

With the device and corresponding computer program product according to the invention, means are provided for providing a device for stimulating the biosynthesis of vitamin D3 that can be used in many areas. The device shown is safe to use and prevents many negative side effects of exposure to UV-B radiation, i.e. radiation in the wavelength range of 280-315 nm.

The device according to the invention is described in more detail below using specific exemplary embodiments and drawings, but without being limited thereto. However, further advantageous embodiments of the device according to the invention arise from these specific exemplary embodiments for the skilled person.

In particular, the drawings show the embodiments in a schematic manner and the reference numbers indicate the same elements with the same reference numbers in each case in order to facilitate tracking.

An exemplary embodiment of the present invention is described with reference to the following figures:

FIG. 1 shows a device according to the invention for stimulating the biosynthesis of vitamin D3. FIG. 1b is a front view of the device of FIG. FIG. 1b is a cross-sectional view of the device in plane CC. FIG. 1c is a side view of the device of FIG. FIG. 1c is a side cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 1b in plane AA. FIG. 1b is a cross-sectional side view of the device in plane BB. FIG. 1b is an exploded view of the device of FIG. FIG. 1b is a detailed view of the light source of FIG. FIG. 1b shows an alternative arrangement of light sources for the device according to FIG. FIG. 1 shows an alternative embodiment of the device according to the invention. FIG. 13 is a front view of another alternative embodiment of the device according to the present invention. FIG. 3b shows an isometric view of the device according to the invention according to FIG. 3a.

Implementation of the invention

Figure 1a shows a device 1 according to the invention for stimulating the biosynthesis of vitamin D3. The device 1 is suitable for use, for example, in the private sector and for complementing a healthy and conscious lifestyle. The device 1 comprises a housing 10. In the present example, the housing 10 is made of aluminum using a deep-drawing process. Of course, housings made of plastic or stainless steel or ceramic are also suitable. A particular advantage of aluminum is its good thermal conductivity, which can help to dissipate waste heat that may be generated to the environment. The housing 10 is constructed in the form of a shell and is delimited at the front side by a front panel 11. The front panel 11 has two glass windows 12 through which light radiation can penetrate from the inside to the outside of the housing 10. Although the glass windows 12 are described here, the illustrated observation windows can also be made of plastic, for example plexiglass. Ideally, the glass is selected to be substantially transparent to UV-B radiation with wavelengths between 280 nm and 315 nm. Suitable UV-transmitting glasses are shown, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,474,589 (Sumitomo Electric Industries Ltd.).

The light source is visible through the glass window 12. In this example, the light source consists of an array 17 with a number of UV LEDs 21. The array 17 is mounted so that it can be displaced horizontally by being mounted to a light source frame via a light source carriage 18. The housing 10 is connected to the base 41 via a stand 52, which is connected to the housing 10 by a bearing joint. For edge mounting, the base 41 has a gripper with a first gripper 50.1 and a second gripper 50.2, closing a holding groove extending centrally between the first gripper 50.1 and the second gripper 50.2. The first gripper 50.1 and the second gripper 50.2 are preferably rubberized so that there is additional friction and the grip of the gripper is improved. The device 1 shown has a power connection via a cable connection 38 terminating in a USB/power plug 39. In the center of the front panel 11 there is a camera lens 13, behind which a camera is installed as an optical sensor.

The device 1 shown in FIG. 1a can be positioned, for example, on the upper edge of a computer screen, a television or a tripod device, and basic adjustments of the alignment of the device 1 can be made via the stand 52. The camera lens 13 can monitor the area in front and detect any illuminated area therein. The illuminated area is identified by a control unit (not shown in FIG. 1a) and, if the illuminated area does not comply with the condition, i.e. if the illuminated area is not an illuminated area that is excluded from illumination, light radiation is emitted via the light source, in this example by the UV LED 21. For this purpose, the LED 21 can have a suitable reflector (not shown in FIG. 1a) that bundles the light radiation and correspondingly limits it to the illuminated area.

During operation, the device 1 can exchange a number of data with a corresponding computer. The USB/power plug 39 can be used to monitor operating parameters such as, for example, operating time, temperature, exposure time for individual exposure areas, and how often certain exposure areas (e.g., the face) must be excluded.

The camera behind the camera lens 13 has sufficient resolution to allow the control unit to recognize a face. In the simplest implementation of the invention, the device 1 is designed only to recognize a face in order to exclude it from illumination or to stop radiation if the face is within the illumination area.

In this example, it is important for the LED to have an emission wavelength spectrum peak in the range of 280 nm to 315 nm. In this example, an LED with a peak of 298 nm was used. Such LEDs are available, among others, from Dowa Electronic Materials Co., Ltd. (Japan).

In this configuration, it has been found that a total daily exposure time of 13-14 minutes, a dose of 12.5 mJ/ ^cm2 , and an erythema irradiance of 0.015 mW/ ^cm2 may be suitable to stimulate and support the body's own biosynthesis of Vitamin D3 in users with skin type 2.

In Fig. 1b, the device 1 of Fig. 1a is again shown in front view, with only the front panel 11 with the corresponding glass window 12 and camera lens 13 visible from the front. The stand 52 and the first gripper 50.1 formed on the base 41 are also clearly visible. Fig. 1b serves to define the section planes used in the figures described in more detail below, detailing one longitudinal section C-C, as well as two profile sections A-A and B-B.

Figure 1c shows the longitudinal section C-C of the mentioned figure 1b in plan view, i.e. from above the device 1. The section C-C passes through the centre of the height extension of the device 1 and therefore through the centre of the camera and lens 13, which in this case is accommodated in the camera compartment of the housing 10. The camera compartment 25 is closed by a camera lens 26 designed flush with the surface of the front panel 11. A standard camera suitable for taking optical images of the surroundings can be positioned in the camera compartment 25. In this case, the resolution of the camera should be evaluated by the control unit and selected such that face recognition is possible. The camera lens 26 can be selected to take a wide angle, for example by a corresponding curvature or a cut in the lens, to increase the area of the image. Such cameras are particularly widespread in the field of surveillance and can be selected by the skilled person as required, taking into account the installation size. The cameras form the sensor unit of the device according to the invention. On both sides of the camera compartment 25 there is a light source compartment 23 in which two light sources are accommodated. The light sources are equipped with a number of UV LEDs and are designed to be mobile. Overall, the entire light source compartment is designed as a movement space for the LEDs. The LEDs are mounted in an array and can be pivoted via a pivot arm 22, which pivots the array 17 perpendicular to the plane of the paper at an angle of ±45°. The pivot arm 22 is connected to a light source carriage 18 mounted in a corresponding groove in the light source frame, so that it can be displaced horizontally. For example, a simple toothed mechanism with a belt drive can be provided for the movement.

The camera (not shown) and the two light sources are mounted on a frame plate 24, which may also comprise electronic leads (not shown in detail). Furthermore, the frame panel 24 may comprise a controller. The frame plate 24 may act as a heat exchanger, either inherently or from individual components, and dissipate waste heat generated by the light sources to the housing and to heat exchange elements, such as ventilation slots and/or fins, correspondingly formed in the housing. The base 41 can also be seen in plan view. In operation, the light sources operate in synchronization with each other or independently of each other, for example to focus on a specific area. In principle, the light sources also comprise a reflector, or the glass window 12 is composed of a suitable lens to essentially focus the light radiation passing through the light sources, so that an illumination area as defined as possible is created. The device may be formed to use the camera image to determine whether a person is at an appropriate distance from the device to judge the illumination.

The exemplary device can preferably be positioned, for example, in a bathroom area with an area of exposed skin as the irradiation area. A suitable mounting position is, for example, above a bathroom mirror. Reliable face recognition prevents harmful UV-B radiation from being directed at the eyes despite this position.

Figure 1d shows a side view of the device, where the housing 10 is face-closed by the front panel 11 and the resulting housing combination is connected to the base 41 via the stand 52. Two grippers 50.1, 50.2 surround the holding groove 51.

In a special embodiment, the grippers 50.1, 50.2 are made of a flexible elastic material so as to exert a restoring force on the object in the holding groove 51.

Figure 1e shows a cross section through the centre of the device in the plane A-A. In addition to or as an alternative to the mounting via the flexible grippers 50.1, 50.2 shown in Figure 1d, this embodiment includes a magnet 53 which allows further fixing of the device 1 to a metal and/or magnetic holding element in the holding groove 51. The entire mounting is connected to the housing 10 via a ball joint 55. Inside the housing 10 a frame plate 24 is provided which centrally supports a chamber area for a camera compartment 25 which is closed at its face by a camera lens 26. The end faces are also closed by a front panel 11.

Figure 1f shows the corresponding cross section through the axis B-B in which the light source is housed. The stand 42 is shown here in a side view. The light source is located in the light source compartment 23. If necessary, small mini fans can be provided to supply air flow to the light source compartment 23. These mini fans can transport waste heat from the light source compartment 23 to the outside through suitable ventilation slots in the housing 10 and cool the light source, for example during high power operation (not shown). The frame plate is fitted with a light source frame 19, which has a rail on which the light source, an array 17 with a plurality of UV LEDs 21, which can be displaced perpendicularly to the cross section, is mounted. Behind the light source frame 19, between the light source frame 19 and the frame plate 24, there is a control compartment 27. The control compartment houses the cable guides for the power supply of the light source carriage, the pivot arm 22, the light source and any additional electronics.

Figure 1g shows the device of Figure 1a in an exploded view in order to clearly define the individual elements once more. The front panel 11 closes the face of the device and has several recesses 12, 13. The central recess 13 serves to accommodate a camera lens or allows a camera 20 to take an image of the area in front of the device 1. On either side of the camera lens 13 there are two glass windows 12 that are UV-B radiation transparent. The carrier plate 14 defines a light source compartment 23 by means of two carrier plate recesses 16 and is located directly behind the glass window 12 when viewed from the front to the rear. The two light sources with LEDs 21, the array 17 and the lamp carriage 18 are arranged on either side of the camera 20 and are housed in a light source frame 19. The light source frame 19 is attached to a frame plate 24. The components are housed in a housing 10 connected to a base via a ball joint connected via two grippers 50.1, 50.2. From the housing 10, communication elements or power source extend from the inside to the outside of the device via a cable connection 38 with a USB/power plug 39.

Figure 1h shows in detail the arrangement of the light source in the irradiation compartment 23. The light source comprises a number of LEDs 21 designed to emit UV-B radiation. The UVB mentioned preferably has a peak in the range of 290-298 nm. The LEDs are mounted in an array 17 that can be pivoted at an angle of ±45° via a pivot arm 22. The pivot arm 22 is mounted on a light source carriage that is movably mounted in the light source frame 19. The electronics of the device according to the invention are designed to move the pivot arm and the light source carriage independently, so that a wide irradiation area can be covered.

Although FIG. 1h does not show individual reflectors, each LED has a reflector, so that the total radiation from the light source can be specifically imaged and defined/imaged and defined for a particular illuminated area.

An alternative to the structure shown in FIG. 1h can be seen in FIG. 1i. In FIG. 1i too, the light source extends into the light source compartment 23. In contrast to FIG. 1h, the individual LEDs 21 are connected to a light source body that can be pivoted on two axes by a drive strip 31 and a rear strip 32. A drive strip motor 33 moves the drive strip back and forth in the direction of the arrow, while the rear strip is moved accordingly. This allows the light source body to be aligned. In the case of an arrangement in which a corresponding drive strip and a corresponding drive strip motor are also provided in the horizontal direction, the LED can thus be pivoted so that its wide cone can be detected by the light beam.

An alternative embodiment of the device is shown in FIG. 2. The device of FIG. 2 has essentially the same structure as the device 1, but with additional light sources, namely an additional second light source and an additional third light source. These are provided by glass plates, namely a first glass plate (14) for the second light source and a second glass plate (15) for the third light source. These are provided as recesses in the front panel, as in FIG. 1, and the camera lens 13 and the glass window 12 with the light source behind it are also similar to the way described in FIG. 1. The light sources are UV LED diodes 21 on an array 17 arranged movably, i.e. via rails that can be traversed by a light source carriage 18 on a light source frame 19. The device can be connected to a power source or a computer by a USB/power plug 39, thus allowing data exchange. As already explained in the general section, the device according to the invention can of course also be equipped with a module for wireless communication, for example a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth module. Depending on the configuration, the control can be more or less directly in the device according to the invention. The device may thus comprise a processor that takes over control tasks and the execution of computer program products, as described in the general section. It is also conceivable that a third party computer, for example a computer connected via a USB port, may perform this task.

Returning to the example of FIG. 2, in addition to the UV-B light source, a second light source with visible light and a third light source with light in the near infrared range that is not visible but can improve blood circulation in the irradiated tissue are provided. In addition to having a positive psychosomatic effect, light in the visible spectrum can also indicate the operation of the device, for example by emitting light in a pleasant light color. Preferably, said first and second light sources are also LED light sources with peaks or spectra in the wavelength ranges of 380 nm to 720 nm for the second light source and 720 nm and 1,800 nm for the third light source, respectively.

A further alternative embodiment is shown in FIG. 3a. In this embodiment of the invention, the light source is physically coupled to the sensor unit such that the directing unit moves both synchronously. In other words, the light source is always aligned with the camera area. For this purpose, the device according to the invention has a two-part housing 10.1, 10.2. The first part 10.1 of the two-part housing houses the sensor unit, in this example the camera with camera lens 13. However, the second part 10.2 of the two-part housing houses the light source behind the glass window 12. The connection 45 between the first part 10.1 of the two-part housing and the second part 10.2 of the two-part housing is rigid, allowing both elements to be moved simultaneously by the directing unit. In this embodiment, the directing unit comprises a rotatably mounted tool arm 44 and a rotatably mounted stand base 43, between which the stand extends. As a result, the device according to the invention can be aligned in a hemispherical area around the base 41, so that a very large effective area can be covered by the lighting element 29 and the camera element 28 as a whole.

This embodiment also draws its energy from the USB/power connector 39.

The device according to the invention is equipped with a control unit. In all the mentioned examples, the control unit is designed to be able to identify the illuminated area. A corresponding sensor unit, i.e. a camera element in the illustrated example, recognizes the illuminated area and delivers an image to the control unit. The control unit is designed to identify the illuminated area, i.e. to evaluate the detected illuminated area and to determine whether this illuminated area is an illuminated area to be excluded from irradiation. Whether an illuminated area is to be excluded from irradiation can be determined, for example, by means of a predefined database stored in a memory unit (not shown in the drawings). It is also conceivable that the computer program product responsible for the control can determine whether an illuminated area is such an illuminated area to be excluded by intelligent programming based on predefined parameters. For this purpose, specific parameters can be provided, such as, for example, the shape and arrangement of recognizable patterns in the captured image area, as well as the assignment of these recognizable patterns to specific elements in the illuminated area to be excluded from radiation. Typically, these are elements utilized for face recognition, such as, for example, the position and distance of the eyes, nose and mouth for recognizing a human face. It is also conceivable that the illustrated device is connected to a machine learning supported program. The computer program product compares the detected irradiated areas to a database or uses machine learning to determine whether these irradiated areas are irradiated areas that may be excluded. Furthermore, the computer program product can control the irradiation as a whole. This can be done, for example, by a computer program product that is designed to assign durations of irradiation to specific irradiated areas. In this way, it can be ensured that an irradiated area is not exposed twice to the same radiation intensity.

It should be understood that the device according to the invention requires for this purpose a control unit designed to operate the specified computer program product and capable of executing the corresponding instructions. For this purpose, the control unit can be provided with a corresponding processor, as well as optional further elements such as, for example, a computational memory, a main memory and/or an output unit. The output unit can, for example, be a simple display. The display can facilitate the initial positioning of the device according to the invention. These elements can be fully or partially outsourced to a third-party device, i.e. they do not necessarily have to be located in the housing of the above-mentioned device. The computer program product can also be designed to synchronize multiple devices according to the invention with each other. Thus, the computer program product can be designed to interconnect multiple devices placed in a certain area, such as, for example, a building. This can even ensure that a person in the building is exposed to an appropriate dose of light radiation by facial recognition, which can assign a face to a specific person, and ensure appropriate safety measures, such as, for example, that a specific skin area cannot be used twice as an irradiation area.

Ideally, the device as shown in the present invention can be used in the private sector. However, the device is particularly suitable for areas where the skin is more exposed than in public spaces, where more clothing is usually worn, for example. For example, bathing facilities, swimming pools, wellness areas, private bathrooms or cloakrooms are ideal areas where the device according to the present invention can be located, as described herein. Thanks to the teachings of the present invention, it is possible to make the stimulation of vitamin D3 biosynthesis a casual process, allowing good compliance by the user. Thus, there is no longer a need to take vitamin D3 preparations, which may be forgotten from time to time, or to plan a specific and strict stay away from home. In addition to notorious latitudes, suitable applications include, for example, areas where, due to the situation, there is little natural sunlight during the day, such as underground facilities, large storage and factory complexes, open-plan offices, offshore systems, as well as narrow and poorly lighted interiors of buildings and mountain areas.

List of reference numbers

REFERENCE NUMERALS 1 Device for stimulating vitamin _D3 biosynthesis 10 Housing 10.1 First part of two-part housing 10.2 Second part of two-part housing 11 Front panel 12 Glass window 13 Camera lens 14 Second light source glass plate 15 Third light source glass plate 16 Carrier plate recess 17 Array 18 Light source carriage 19 Light source frame 20 Camera 21 UV LED diodes 22 Pivot arm 23 Light source compartment 24 Frame plate (heat exchanger)
25 Camera compartment 26 Camera lens 27 Control compartment 28 Camera element 29 Light source element 30 Light source body 31 Drive strip 32 Rear strip 33 Drive strip motor 34 Pivot joint 38 Cable connection 39 USB/power plug 41 Base 42 Stand 43 Rotatably mounted stand base 44 Rotatable tool arm 45 Connection 50.1 First gripper 50.2 Second gripper 51 Holding groove 52 Stand 53 Magnet 55 Ball joint

Claims (23)

a. at least one first light source for emitting optical radiation comprising wavelengths in the range of 280-315 nm;
b. a sensor unit for detecting an illuminated area;
c. a directing unit for aligning the at least one light source with the illumination area;
d. a control unit designed to identify the illuminated area and to trigger emission of optical radiation comprising wavelengths in the range of 280-315 nm by the at least one light source;
A device for stimulating vitamin _D3 biosynthesis comprising: The device according to claim 1, wherein the sensor unit comprises an optical sensor, in particular a camera. The device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit is designed to control the alignment of the first light source by the directing unit based on the identified illumination area. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising a focusing unit for generating a directed beam of light rays from the emission of optical radiation by the first light source. The device according to claim 4, wherein the focusing unit comprises a lens and/or a collimator, in particular a collimator having a converging lens for generating a directed bundle of light rays from the emission of light radiation by the first light source. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising a second light source for emitting optical radiation comprising wavelengths in the visible range, in particular wavelengths in the range of 380 nm to 720 nm. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising a third light source for emitting optical radiation comprising wavelengths in the near infrared range, in particular in the range of 720 nm to 1800 nm. The device of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the control unit is designed to identify a human face within the illuminated area. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the control unit is designed to identify a predetermined illumination area. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising a communication unit for exchanging data. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the first light source and/or the second light source and/or the third light source and the sensor unit are physically coupled such that they can be jointly directed by the directing unit toward the illumination area. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the directing unit is designed to be pivotable on at least two axes, in particular on at least one rotatably mounted stand base and a rotatably mounted tool arm for pivoting the light source on at least two axes. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the irradiated area is a skin area having an area of 40 cm ² to 900 cm ² , in particular 50 cm ² to 600 cm ² , in particular about 400 cm ² . The device of claim 13, wherein the skin area of the irradiated area is definable by an adjustable focusing unit. a) designed to compare an illumination area detected by a sensor unit with a predetermined illumination area, and b) designed to trigger an emission of light radiation comprising a wavelength in the range of 280 nm to 315 nm by at least one first light source if the detected illumination area does not correspond to an illumination area excluded from illumination.
A computer program product for the control of a device for stimulating the biosynthesis of vitamin _D3 , in particular a device according to any one of claims 1 to 13. The computer program product of claim 15, wherein the irradiation areas excluded from irradiation are irradiation areas selected from the group consisting of a human face, skin areas with one or more pigmented nevi, skin areas with scabs, wounds and/or scar tissue, and skin areas that have already been irradiated within a predetermined time interval with optical radiation comprising wavelengths in the range of 280 nm to 315 nm. The computer program product of claim 15 or 16 is designed to assign time intervals to specific illumination areas, the illumination areas being illuminated with optical radiation having wavelengths in the range of 280 nm to 315 nm. The computer program product according to any one of claims 15 to 17, which is designed to control the search of a predetermined illumination area by the computer program product that controls the sensor unit. A computer program product according to any one of claims 15 to 18, designed to compare each image detected by the optical sensor with an illuminated area that is excluded from illumination. A computer program product according to any one of claims 15 to 19, which is designed to search for suitable illumination areas that are not excluded from illumination, in order to enter an operational mode upon a signal from the sensor unit. The computer program product according to any one of claims 15 to 20, wherein the sensor unit exposes the illuminated area to optical radiation comprising wavelengths in the range of 280 nm to 315 nm as soon as the sensor unit detects an illuminated area that is excluded from illumination within the effective range of the light source. The computer program product according to any one of claims 15 to 21, further designed to monitor or configure the execution of the control of a device for stimulating biosynthesis of Vitamin _D3 on a third party device via a communication unit. A computer program product executable on a third party device and designed to manage user data of a device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, comprising:
a) the user data includes data selected from the group consisting of skin type, age, occupation, and lifestyle habits, and b) the computer program product is designed to exchange the user data in encrypted form with a communication unit of the device;
Computer program products.

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